Father queries if fraud-suspect psychiatrist involved in son's case

A man working as a psychiatrist at Waikato DHB appeared in Hamilton District Court on several charges, including identity theft. Photo / NZPA

The father of a Hamilton man who died while under the care of Waikato District Health Board says it is unclear whether a man working as a psychiatrist and arrested for identity fraud was involved in the treatment of his son.

A man working as a psychiatrist at Waikato DHB appeared in Hamilton District Court on Saturday on several charges, including identity theft. He had previously worked with vulnerable patients who had health issues, including mental illness and addiction problems. He was granted name suppression.

Waikato DHB said it was contacting the 25 patients the man saw during his time with the DHB.

Nicky Stevens, 21, was found dead in the Waikato River in March, after being released from the Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre at Waikato Hospital.

His father, Dave Macpherson, said while he knew that the man charged with fraud wasn't one of Mr Stevens' psychiatrists, he could have been involved with Mr Stevens' triage care in the Emergency Department at Waikato Hospital.

"Nicky was triaged and assigned to the Henry Bennett Centre two days later which was, I guess, the result of that and I've asked [whether he was treated by the man charged with fraud] in writing but haven't received a response yet," Mr Macpherson said.

"[My] other concern is about the fact that their systems don't pick up something like this."

Previously, Mr Stevens was treated by a psychiatrist at Waikato DHB who faced an internal investigation over whether he revealed to the DHB that he gave up his medical licence in the United States while under scrutiny for alleged professional misconduct.

Dr Paul Fox surrendered his medical licence and agreed not to contest allegations of professional misconduct in the United States, but worked for the Waikato DHB from 2012 until 2014.

"He was the lead psychiatrist for Nicky," Mr Macpherson said.

The DHB is undertaking an internal review of the events leading up to Mr Stevens' death.

The health board said patients who'd been with the triage, crisis or home-based treatment teams this year and had concerns should call the Triage Service 0800 50 50 50 or email mentalhealth@waikatodhb.health.nz.

The man will next appear in court on Monday.